Is Diversity a Strength?

Note to Attendees: Please consider making a $5 donation to contribute to the running costs of this Meetup.

Nigerian-American author Ola Joseph once claimed, “Diversity is not about how we differ. Diversity is about embracing one another’s uniqueness.” It’s an uplifting idea — but is it always true?

From ancient empires that flourished through cultural exchange to modern societies wrestling with questions of identity and belonging, diversity has been praised as a strength and criticised as a source of instability.

At our next meetup, we’ll put this claim under the microscope and explore whether diversity truly strengthens societies, or whether its value depends on context. The questions we will address are as follows:

1. What do we actually mean when we say “diversity,” and why has it become such a defining idea today?
2. Can history provide convincing examples where diversity clearly strengthened — or weakened — a society?
3. If diversity brings both benefits and challenges, how should modern nations balance inclusion with social cohesion?

This event will be held at The Osbourne Hotel in the Fortitude Valley. After the discussion, we’ll stay on for a meal and a drink together — a chance to continue the conversation in a more relaxed setting and support the venue.

PLEASE NOTE:
– This is intended to be a good-natured but robust discussion. Please be respectful and prepared to have your ideas challenged. If you are easily offended, this event may not be for you.